Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

At the North Idaho State Fair, fairgoers try the action bar challenge by hanging from a metal bar for 100 seconds to win $100 using their grip strength—owner Andy Smith said about 16 people had succeeded as of Wednesday and the contest will run until Sunday.

Hospice of North Idaho's thrift store on Seltice Way will close this fall—Nov.

8 is its final day—after 37 years of supporting hospice care. Executive director Eric Ladwig said the lease is ending and no affordable replacement space has been found.

Artist Gabrielle Lewis worked on the 'Welcome to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho' community-funded mural on Third Street between Sherman and Lakeside avenues on August 12—her work brings local art to a key downtown location.

Chloe Sundet and Robert McPherson will perform 'Love Denied' at 7:30 p.m. on Sept.

12 at the Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center in Post Falls. The program will feature arias from Donizetti’s Lucia Di Lammermoor and Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette—attendees are urged to reserve seats as space is limited and a preview of Die Fledermaus will be presented next year in Coeur d’Alene.

Thursday, a back-to-school event at Windermere CDA Realty gave children new backpacks, school supplies, a BBQ lunch and haircuts—organized by CDA Backpack Program Windermere Coeur d’Alene Realty and the Windermere Foundation, where kids enjoyed activities including a dunk tank.

Collin and Peyton Shaw picked their favorite colors to help start their school year with excitement.

High school students in Coeur d'Alene will be allowed to use cellphones at lunch starting Sept.

2 after a student-led proposal won approval at a school board meeting. Officials said principals will decide on use—aiming to improve campus safety and provide fair personal breaks.

Coeur d’Alene—North Idaho College is preparing to launch a new classical education track today called Cardinal Classical Academy, which will allow students to earn a two-year associate’s degree that meets general education requirements.

Pilot courses will begin in spring and the full program will be offered in fall to support local students seeking a classical education.

NIC Color Fun Run

1–4 p.m. — North Idaho College — Free for students and youth, $20 for others — Enjoy a vibrant, untimed run with live music and food trucks.

Gem State Stampede Rodeo

1-10 a.m. — Kootenai County Fairgrounds — Check website for pricing — Experience thrilling rodeo action and unforgettable entertainment at this local favorite.

Jen McKenna Paddle and Run 5.0

8 AM – 12 PM — Higgens Point — Entry fee applies — Experience an active day of paddling and running in the scenic Coeur d'Alene area.

2025 Boats, Bikes, Burgers & Brews

12-6 p.m. — Hagadone Marine Group — Free entry — Celebrate the end of boating season with unbeatable deals on boats, accessories, and local brews.

Jazz Brunch at Ten/6

9 a.m.-11 a.m. & 12 p.m.-2 p.m. — Ten/6 — $10.06 cover — Enjoy live jazz music while savoring a delightful brunch inspired by New Orleans traditions.

Lead Generation that Boosts Conversion Rates

12-2 p.m. — Coeur d'Alene Regional REALTORS — Cost unknown — Gain practical tools to enhance your lead generation conversion rates.

Oktoberfest 2025

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Downtown Mall — $25-$60 — Sample Oktoberfest-style beers and enjoy entertainment at this vibrant downtown celebration.

Walk, Run, Read

8 AM – 12 PM — City Park — $40 for 10K, $30 for 5K, $20 for 1 Mile, Free for kids — Enjoy a fun-filled morning supporting literacy with various race options for all ages.